Why We Drive

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From the author of "Shop Class as Soulcraft," this book celebrates driving as a vital expression of human freedom, now threatened by automation. Once, we experienced the open road filled with autonomy and adventure; today, we often find ourselves in the backseat of an Uber, as tech giants push us toward a self-driving future that prioritizes profit over personal agency. Are we destined to become mere passengers? This exploration reveals that much more is at stake. Matthew B. Crawford, a philosopher and mechanic, previously challenged the value of manual labor against the backdrop of white-collar work. Now, he uses driving to examine the broader impacts of technology on our lives, highlighting the driver's seat as a rare space for skill, exploration, and freedom. Blending philosophy with personal storytelling, Crawford shares his decade-long journey restoring a vintage Volkswagen and immersing himself in vibrant automotive subcultures. He offers a thoughtful critique of bureaucracies, the importance of questioning rules, and the struggle for self-determination in an age of surveillance capitalism. This work celebrates the competence of everyday people, the ingenuity of 'folk engineering,' and the existential thrill of embracing fear. Witty and insightful, it champions the indomitable human spirit.